Suspect to appear in court over theft of Eskom transformer in Tshwane

JOHANNESBURG - A 37-year-old suspect is due to appear in court this week, over theft and tampering, after being found in possession of an Eskom transformer.

This follows an operation conducted on Friday by the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) in collaboration with Eskom investigators and technicians in Winterveldt, Tshwane.

During the operation, police seized 28 Eskom transformers valued at approximately R1.7 million.

Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk said, "A multi-disciplinary team, comprising SAPS [South African Police Service] members from various specialised units, Eskom investigators, and technicians, acted on intelligence regarding illegal electricity connections in the area. Upon reaching the identified location, officers found the suspect in possession of an Eskom transformer and other electrical equipment, leading to his immediate arrest."

Police said they uncovered an additional 27 illegally connected Eskom transformers across the area, with Eskom officials estimating a revenue loss of approximately R90 million as a result of these illegal connections.